Two Upper Peninsula farmers markets were among 10 statewide that received grant funding to expand or improve their operations.
The grants came from the Michigan Strategic Fund, administered through the
Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and totaled $200,000; the farmers markets will provide matching funds for their grants.
The Gladstone farmers market will get $50,000 in grant funding and match it with $60,740 of its own funds, to create a multi-purpose area in a downtown parking lot, to be used for the market as well as other local activities.
In Marquette, the farmers market will get $24,537 and provide $43,623 in matching funds, for a renovation of its Marquette Commons location. The commons area will be "revamped to better meet the needs of the farmers market by making it more aesthetically pleasing and adding needed amenities," according to the MEDC.
"Farmers markets improve our downtowns and bring vitality and a sense of place to our communities," says MEDC president and CEO Michael Finney. "These grants will support local markets, strengthen communities and create jobs in our state."
The other markets awarded grants were Delhi Charter Township, Boyne City, Port Sanilac, Gaylord, Chelsea, East Lansing, Grand Ledge and Canton Township. To qualify, the markets had to have been operating for at least four years.
Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Michigan Economic Development Corporation
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